The band plays on at summer camp

The leader of the band detected one discordant note as 14 music students launched into a lively "Songs of the Sage."

"Jeff, why are you playing?" asked Dave Smith of a young percussionist. "You are not supposed to be in yet."

A quick check of the score found Jeff Steinbach, 12, reading "Songs of the Sea." The student quickly switched sheets and picked up the right beat.

"We have a beautiful melody here and don't be afraid of it," said Mr. Smith, pulling the children into the music with a gentle enthusiasm.

On his cue, the young musicians struck up their summer band, and classical music resounded from the Freedom Optimist Club in Eldersburg.

The children have joined a summer band program under the leadership of Mr. Smith, an Eldersburg resident and band director at Ridgely Middle School in Timonium. Many of his Baltimore County students have followed their leader to Carroll County for the four two-hour camp sessions.

"He is a good teacher," said Jeff, who lives in Timonium. "I could listen to him all year."

Mr. Smith said the camp offers students an opportunity to play during the summer months.

When school reopens, said Sarah Nelson, 13, she won't be dusting off her flute as she has the past few years.

"We are tuning in now," she said.

Mr. Smith said he hopes to build the summer program into an annual event. The evening hours make it easier for working parents.

"We play for a few hours in a real low-pressure setting, where the children get to meet new friends with similar interests," he said.

Matthew Groves, 13, said that playing at camp is "more fun and easier" than playing solo at his Baltimore County home.